Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuz023

Paper

Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Published May 28, 2019 · W. Marx, M. Lane, Tetyana Rocks

Nutrition reviews

Q1 SJR score

68

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Abstract

CONTEXT Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has gained interest as a potential treatment in psychiatry. OBJECTIVE This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to investigate the effect of saffron supplementation, as both an adjunctive therapy and monotherapy, on symptoms of depression and anxiety in clinical and general populations compared with pharmacotherapy or placebo. DATA SOURCES Using the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials was conducted. DATA EXTRACTION A meta-analysis was conducted to determine treatment effect. Risk of bias was assessed using the Jadad scale. RESULTS Twenty-three studies were included. Saffron had a large positive effect size when compared with placebo for depressive symptoms (g = 0.99, P < 0.001) and anxiety symptoms (g = 0.95, P < 0.006). Saffron also had a large positive effect size when used as an adjunct to antidepressants for depressive symptoms (g = 1.23, P = 0.028). Egger's regression test found evidence of publication bias. CONCLUSIONS Saffron could be an effective intervention for symptoms of depression and anxiety; however, due to evidence of publication bias and lack of regional diversity, further trials are required. PROSPERO registration CRD42017070060.

Meta-Analysis

Study Snapshot

Saffron supplementation shows potential as an effective intervention for symptoms of depression and anxiety, but further trials are needed due to publication bias and lack of regional diversity.

PopulationOlder adults (50-71 years)

Sample size24

MethodsObservational

OutcomesBody Mass Index projections

ResultsSocial networks mitigate obesity in older groups.

Paper

Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

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Saffron is effective in treating major depressive disorder and is comparable to synthetic antidepressants, with no serious adverse events reported.

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Saffron is a safe and effective treatment for improving hot flashes and depressive symptoms in post-menopausal women, offering a non-hormonal alternative to hormone therapy.

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Saffron combined with fluoxetine improves depression and reduces homocysteine levels in patients with major depression.

Citations

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Exploring the Potential of Saffron as a Therapeutic Agent in Depression Treatment: A Comparative Review

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Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and Its By-Products: Healthy Effects in Internal Medicine

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Chronic medical conditions, particularly anxiety, depression, and gastroesophageal reflux disease, are associated with higher odds of persistent dietary supplement use.

Effect of Saffron Versus Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in Treatment of Depression and Anxiety: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

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